As a ratepayer I am pleased that he is being vigilant with my money, his intentions are honourable. However, he fails to see the big picture. 

The council grant given to the conservatorium is given expressly to fund the ORC’s outreach programs i.e. their work in public schools, health facilities and community organisations. 

Currently the ORC runs programs in approximately 12 facilities. And while one may not see a Glenroi school uniform at the conservatorium, the conservatorium has run programmes in Glenroi school. These programs introduce children, whose parents may not have the financial means or the inclination, to a whole new way of living, inspiring them to think on a different level. Surely, this is what education should be about? Eliminate this grant and you stand to impoverish a whole generation of Orange schoolchildren. 

It is well known that music not only “sooths the soul”, but inspires people to greater heights. It is beneficial both physiologically and psychologically. 

One community organisation that benefits immensely from the ORC outreach tutelage is the Come Together Choir. Every Tuesday morning Donna Riles and Samantha Bartholomeusz lead the 80-plus members in a two-hour singing program that lifts the rafters of the senior citizens’ hall along with the spirits of the choir. 

The choir, at various times, also performs in retirement facilities and community events, which lightens other people’s lives. A ripple effect can be seen, the ORC reaches many people in many different walks of life. 

So now the CTC issues an invitation to councillor Taylor to attend one of their Tuesday morning sessions, and he will see how music inspires a whole group of people. We all go home with a spring in our step, and so will he!

Mac Percy,

Member of the Come Together Choir,

Orange